Investigation of the Protective Effect of Vitamin B-Complex Against Contrast Media-Induced Nephropathy: An Experimental Study in Rats Model

Abstract

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is defined as a rise in serum creatinine (SCr), accounting for about 12% of hospital-acquired acute renal injury cases. It's the third most frequent cause of acute renal damage acquired in hospitals. This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of vitamin B complex against contrast media-induced nephropathy due to its antioxidant properties. Twenty-four male albino Wistar rats (280 ± 20 g) were obtained from the Animal House of Sana’a University and randomly assigned to four groups (n = 6 per group): control group (5 mL saline/kg, IP), CIN group (Iohexol, 350 mg iodine/mL, 15 mL/kg, IP), CIN + NAC group (150 mg/kg, IP), and CIN + VBC group (1.85 mL/kg, IP). The medications were administered daily for three weeks, and CIN was induced in the last four days of the third week. Blood and urine samples were analyzed for renal function markers (serum creatinine, BUN, Cystatin C, and GFR). Oxidative stress indicators (SOD, MDA), urine markers, and histological assessment were assessed using H&E and PAS staining to identify structural damage and fibrosis. Compared to the CIN group, VBC significantly reduced SCr (p < 0.05), in addition to oxidative stress markers. Histological analysis confirmed reduced glomerular and tubular damage, inflammatory infiltration, and fibrosis. NAC did not show a significant protective effect. Further studies are necessary to determine its clinical applicability in human situations. Vitamin B complex established a significant renoprotective effect against contrast-induced nephropathy in rats, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic strategy to mitigate CIN-related renal injury.